A’s closer Andrew Bailey has strained forearm

PHOENIX
— Tests revealed Tuesday that Oakland closer Andrew Bailey has a strained forearm, news that came as a relief to the Athletics after they feared he had a serious elbow injury.

There is no timetable for his return, but Bailey will resume throwing once the discomfort subsides.

“It’s good news for us, definitely. We’ll go from there,” manager Bob Geren said in Surprise, where an Athletics split squad played the Kansas City Royals.

The A’s were concerned when Bailey left Monday’s game against Cleveland in the seventh inning, grabbing his right elbow after throwing a pitch to Ezequiel Carrera.

Bailey flew to Birmingham, Ala., and was examined by Dr. James Andrews, who performed surgery on Bailey to clean out the elbow area Sept. 24.

Oakland vice president and general manager Billy Beane said: “Any time a pitcher comes out of a game like Andrew did, you hold your breath. While there is no timetable on his return, this is welcome news.”